Guinness World Records recognizes the Djoser Step pyramid in Egypt as the world's oldest pyramid, dating back to around 2,630 BC. However, a recent paper published in October suggested that a layer of the Gunung Padang pyramid in Indonesia could potentially date back to 25,000 BC. The study, led by researchers from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences, highlighted that the pyramid's core is made of meticulously sculpted massive andesite lava, indicating advanced masonry skills.
The findings challenge the traditional belief that advanced construction techniques only emerged with the advent of agriculture approximately 11,000 years ago. The researchers argue that evidence from Gunung Padang and other sites like Gobekli Tepe in Turkey suggests that such practices existed even before the invention of agriculture.
Despite these claims, some archaeologists have expressed skepticism about the paper. One UK archaeologist pointed out that there is no clear evidence to suggest that the buried layers at Gunung Padang were constructed by humans. He noted the absence of indications of human activity such as charcoal or bone fragments in the 27,000-year-old soil samples.
In response to the criticism, the lead researcher invited scholars from around the world to conduct further research at Gunung Padang. The co-editor of the journal where the paper was published confirmed that an investigation into the study has been initiated.
While the debate continues regarding the origins of the Gunung Padang pyramid, the discovery has sparked interest in understanding the early development of advanced construction techniques. The site remains a subject of intrigue and invites further exploration to unravel its mysteries.
